Leisure centre to get £250,000 towards upgrade
GLLA council leisure centre is to be refurbished after being taken over by a new operator.
Birtley Leisure Centre in Gateshead is currently run in partnership with Lifestyle Fitness but GLL will take over in April.
The company, which runs a number of the Better brand centres across the borough, said it would invest £250,000 to upgrade the site's facilities and gym equipment.
Councillor Angela Douglas, cabinet member for culture, sport and tourism, said she hoped the "state-of-the-art equipment" would attract more people to the centre's range of classes.
GLL said the money would be used to buy new cardio and strength equipment, new bikes for the spin studio and upgrade the saunas.
The company also plans to introduce its Healthwise Programme - an exercise referral scheme designed to help inactive people or those with long-term health conditions increase their physical activity.
Temporary closure
The gym will be closed from 1 April until 7 April while the refurbishment is carried out.
Members will be able to use Blaydon, Dunston and Heworth leisure centres, as well as Gateshead International Stadium, until the works are completed.
GLL's Gateshead partnership manager, Scott Holmes, said the investment would "transform the look, feel and functionality of the centre".
"We've listened to what local people want from their leisure facilities, and this refurbishment is about delivering a high-quality environment that supports everyone – whether they're new to exercise, returning after a break, or training regularly," he said.
"By enhancing accessibility, extending opening hours and introducing new programmes over time, we're ensuring the centre is fit for the future and continues to serve the community for many years to come."
